How to Find New Airdrops Early: Complete Guide 2025

Cryptocurrency airdrops distribute free tokens to existing holders or users who complete simple tasks, serving as both a reward and a marketing strategy. They aim to raise awareness, boost adoption, and circulate the token. Learn more from our crypto airdrop explainer article.

As of February 2025, cryptocurrency projects have collectively distributed over $58 billion through airdrops since 2017. In 2024 alone, airdrops reached a record $15.8 billion in value.

The largest airdrop of 2024 was conducted by Hyperliquid, distributing 310 million HYPE tokens to over 94,000 users. Initially valued at approximately $1 billion, the token's price surged to an all-time high (ATH) of $35. This brings the total airdrop value to nearly $10.85 billion—making it one of the most significant airdrops in cryptocurrency history.

A CoinGecko report found that 46% of the top 50 largest crypto airdrops since 2020 hit their all-time high prices within two weeks of being listed. While some tokens peaked in days, others, such as Optimism (OP), took over a year, highlighting the volatility and short-term hype surrounding airdropped tokens.

Why Finding Airdrops Early is Important

In airdrops, being early is important. The sooner you start, the bigger your potential rewards. Many projects favor long-term users over those who join last minute. For example, Wormhole rewarded users who engaged in previous years, even over those who spent more money at the last moment. Some projects require consistent use, so starting early helps. Early participation also reduces competition, increasing your reward chances before crowds join.

Essential Safety Practices

Prioritize Security

• Use a Separate Wallet: Create a dedicated wallet for airdrop activities to shield your primary assets from risks tied to unverified projects, limiting exposure if an airdrop involves malicious contracts or scams.

• Protect Private Information: Never share private keys or sensitive details, as legitimate airdrops won’t ask for them, and sharing such information can lead to unauthorized access to your funds by scammers.

• Dedicated Email Address: Set up a unique email for crypto activities to minimize phishing risks and protect personal data, keeping your main email free from spam or targeted attacks.

Verify Legitimacy

• Research the Project: Investigate the team, online presence, and community feedback to confirm the project’s credibility before participating, helping you avoid scams and engage only with reputable initiatives.

Legal and Tax Considerations

• Track Earnings: Record all tokens received from airdrops, as they may be taxable in some jurisdictions, ensuring you stay compliant with relevant regulations.

• Consult a Professional: Seek advice from a tax expert to ensure compliance with local laws, as cryptocurrency tax rules can vary widely by region.